Small Animal Blood Bank: a vital resource for life-saving blood transfusions in our beloved pets
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Media Contact: Kinsey Reed | Communications Specialist | 405-744-6740 | kinsey.reed@okstate.edu
Veterinary transfusion medicine has made several advancements in recent years. Despite these advances, the supply of blood products is still limited. Unfortunately, many patients still die today because there isn't any blood available for transfusion.
The Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital plans to open a lifesaving blood bank in fall 2024.
Dogs and cats may need blood transfusions for several reasons. Infectious diseases, trauma, immune-mediated diseases, during and after surgical procedures, and rodenticide toxicities are the most common causes. Dogs and cats have different blood types, and to perform a blood transfusion without reactions or complications, it is necessary to know the donor and recipient's blood type. The donation is not harmful to the animal. The careful and meticulous selection of the donor is a crucial step to ensure the safety of both the donor and recipient, instilling confidence in the process.
Some criteria for becoming a donor include:
- Blood donors must be young, between 1- and 7-years-old.
- Donors must weigh above 25 kilograms (55 pounds) and have sufficient blood volume to donate the 450 milliliters f blood without any detrimental effects. The body condition score is also very important. Dogs that weigh more than 25 kilograms but are obese should not be selected as blood donors, as this harms the donor. The blood banking team members should be familiar with the body condition scoring
- Based on the physical exam, blood work, and infectious disease tests, donors should be deemed overall healthy by a licensed veterinarian.
- Dogs and cats should be annually vaccinated and have tick and flea preventive.
Blood donors must remain calm and well-behaved during the donation process. If deep sedation is necessary due to the donor's behavior or excessive excitement, they may be excluded or not selected as a blood donor. The safety of the blood donor is of utmost importance.
The blood donor's owner plays a vital role in the process. Donors will be given multiple incentives throughout the year for their dedication to helping save other dogs and cats. The owner of the blood donor plays a vital role in the process. The owner’s commitment, responsibility and reliability are greatly valued and are key to the success of the blood donation process.
About the author: Dr. Andreza Conti is a clinical assistant professor in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care.
Veterinary Viewpoints is provided by the faculty of the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Certified by the American Animal Hospital Association, the hospital is open to the public providing routine and specialized care for all species, as well as emergency care. Call 405-744-7000 for an appointment or see more information at vetmed.okstate.edu.